Pilgrimage Werl — Diocesan Pilgrimage Day

Pilgrimage Werl — Marian Devotion Since 1661

If you are looking for a spiritual experience in Westphalia that combines faith, community, and history, the Pilgrimage Werl is a highlight in the Catholic calendar of North Rhine-Westphalia. In the heart of the Soest district, the Pilgrimage Basilica of Mary's Visitation welcomes over 100,000 pilgrims each year — making Werl Germany's third-largest Marian pilgrimage site after Altötting (Bavaria) and Kevelaer (Lower Rhine).

The Relic Image — the “Comforter of the Afflicted”

At the center of devotion is the relic image of a enthroned Madonna with child — a so-called Ring Postulmadonna from the 12th century, carved from wood, created around 1180 in the Rhineland or Westphalia. In 1661, the sculpture was solemnly transferred from the parish church of St. Maria zur Wiese in Soest to Werl — since then, the “Comforter of the Afflicted” has been a destination for pilgrims and processions. The sources document a first wave of pilgrimage in 1760, when pilgrims from Olpe traveled to Werl to pray for the end of the Seven Years' War.

The Basilica of Mary's Visitation

The current Neo-Romanesque basilica was built between 1904 and 1906 according to plans by the Münster architect Wilhelm Sunder-Plaßmann for the Franciscan order. Pope Pius XII elevated the church to the rank of Basilica minor on October 16, 1953. Inside, the relic image dominates above the main altar; the cloister, crypt, and Kreuzgarten invite quiet contemplation.

Diocesan Pilgrimage Day June 21, 2026 — “With You! Pilgrimage to Werl”

On Sunday, June 21, 2026, the Archdiocese of Paderborn, together with the Kolpingwerk Diocesan Association Paderborn, invites you to the Diocesan Pilgrimage Day in Werl. Before the Corona pandemic, the pilgrimage day took place every five years (the date planned for 2021 was canceled); in 2026, the tradition will be revived — this time under the personal motto “With You! Pilgrimage to Werl.”

Pilgrimage Offerings for Every Generation

The morning offers pilgrimage activities for all generations: for groups, families, and individual pilgrims, on foot and by bicycle. Classic pilgrimage routes lead via the Hellwege into the Soest district and find their common endpoint in Werl. The open-air pilgrimage mass in the Kreuzgarten at 11:30 AM with Auxiliary Bishop Josef Holtkotte plays a central role. The return journey to Paderborn will take place in the late afternoon by train with a connection in Soest.

Canoe Hiking Pilgrimage Route on the Previous Day

Already on Saturday, June 20, 2026, the pilgrimage leadership and cooperation partners are organizing a canoe hiking pilgrimage route via the Lippe River to Werl — a well-tested format that combines outdoor activity with spiritual preparation. Registration via the Pilgrimage Office.

350th Foot Pilgrimage Werne–Werl in August

A second highlight in 2026 is the 350th Foot Pilgrimage Werne–Werl on August 29–30, 2026 — one of Westphalia's most traditional foot pilgrimages, which has taken place annually without interruption since the 17th century. The approximately 40 km route is covered in two days with an overnight stay.

Further Pilgrimage Highlights 2026

In addition to the Diocesan Pilgrimage Day, other events shape the Werl pilgrimage year: the format “find your light 2026” on February 2 (Candlemas with High Mass and blessing of candles), First Communion children's pilgrimages, Grandparent-Grandchild Days, pilgrimages for cyclists, motorcyclists, tractor, and vintage car drivers, as well as regular candlelight services.